"Homes in lifestyle estates generally come with price premiums that average 30% compared with like-on-like properties on the outside. Therefore, mistakes can be that much more costly if you fail to carry out fundamental research on the estate itself before closing the deal on your home purchase," says Gilmour.
His checklist for investing in a gated estate begins with the Home Owners' Association (HOA):
Furthermore, Gilmour recommends a walk or drive around the entire estate to ensure that it is in good shape. Start with the main gate, which should be well organised and manned by helpful uniformed guards. Clean and well maintained roads, walkways and pavements will confirm that an efficient maintenance plan is in place. There should also be consistency of architecture and design across the entire estate. Homes that are half built, or inconsistent with the overall guidelines, should be seen as a warning flag.
"Above all, look closely at the security system - including the electric fence, surveillance cameras, presence of security vehicles, roving patrols and proactive policing. A recent countrywide ARC survey showed that security is the biggest single factor that motivates investment in gated residential estates," he adds.